First Ever Live 3D Broadcast Of A Sports Event In Europe

In yet another step forward for 3D in Europe, the sponsors of the England Rugby team, O2, the mobile phone company, have announced that England’s 6-Nation’s match against Wales will be broadcast in 3D to 40 cinemas across the UK.

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O2 will celebrate 100 years of rugby at Twickenham Stadium with live 3D cinema screenings of England’s home RBS 6 Nations games. The screenings, taking place at 40 Odeon and Cineworld cinemas across England, mark the first time a sports event has been broadcast live in 3D in Europe.

As a proud sponsor of England Rugby, O2 aims to make rugby accessible to everyone. Through these screenings rugby fans nationwide will be able to experience the legendary atmosphere of Twickenham Stadium and participate in the excitement of England’s official centenary match, against Wales in the RBS 6 Nations on February 6th, and their clash with Ireland on February 27th. Using cutting edge technology, fans will experience the games in polarized 3D – providing as close an experience as fans can get without actually being at Twickenham.

The broadcasts build on the success of O2’s 2007 Rugby World Cup live screenings, which saw over 10,000 fans gather at The O2. O2 customers will get access to Priority Tickets to the landmark screenings through the O2 blueroom, and a free pint at each match.

Sally Cowdry, Marketing Director at O2, said: “As England team sponsor we’re committed to enhancing the experience for rugby fans. With these screenings we’ll be using the latest technology to let thousands of fans across the country get closer to the action and join in the excitement of celebrating 100 years of England Rugby at Twickenham”.

Paul Vaughan, RFU Business Operations Director said: “In Twickenham’s centenary year, this demonstrates that England Rugby has a rich history and an even richer future with exciting new developments such as O2’s 3D screenings. It’s a privilege to be involved with England Rugby and celebrate 100 memorable years, and I hope rugby fans will pack cinemas across the country to support the team and mark this milestone”.
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It can’t be long before the 3D experience will be available in pubs and in the home, courtesy of the 3DTV’s which will be released later this year.